Publishing principles are essential in ensuring that indigenous peoples’ voices, rights, and stories are communicated in a way that is respectful, accurate, and empowering. Given the history of misrepresentation, appropriation, and silencing of indigenous peoples, it is crucial to follow principles that prioritize indigenous perspectives and rights. Here are some recommended publishing principles for the indigenous peoples movement:

1. Respect and Acknowledgment: Always recognize and respect the sovereignty, traditions, languages, and histories of indigenous peoples. Ensure that indigenous communities and individuals are properly acknowledged for their contributions.
2. Informed Consent: Before publishing content related to indigenous peoples, ensure that informed consent is obtained. Avoid sharing sensitive or sacred information without permission.
3. Accuracy and Authenticity: Strive for accuracy in representation. Avoid stereotypes, and seek input from indigenous sources to ensure the content is authentic and correctly contextualized.
4. Indigenous Voices: Prioritize and amplify indigenous voices. Whenever possible, let indigenous people speak for themselves, rather than speaking for them.
5. Cultural Sensitivity: Be aware of and avoid sharing content that could be considered culturally sensitive or sacred. Some stories, rituals, or symbols may not be meant for public consumption.
6. Collaboration: Foster genuine partnerships with indigenous contributors, writers, editors, and reviewers. Collaboration ensures a more inclusive and accurate narrative.
7. Right to Refusal: Recognize and respect the right of indigenous peoples to refuse to share certain information, stories, or perspectives.
8. Transparency: Be transparent about the intent, purpose, and use of published content. This includes disclosing any financial or other interests that may influence the content.
9. Fair Compensation: Ensure that indigenous contributors are fairly compensated for their time, knowledge, and skills.
10. Continuous Learning: Recognize that understanding and representing indigenous cultures is a continuous learning process. Be open to feedback and make corrections when necessary.
11. Anti-Colonial Approach: Be aware of and challenge colonial narratives and structures. Ensure that the publishing process itself is not perpetuating colonialism or other forms of oppression.
12. Language Sensitivity: Whenever possible, include indigenous languages, and offer translations. Additionally, avoid using outdated or offensive terminology.
13. Contextual Awareness: Understand and acknowledge the broader political, social, and historical contexts in which indigenous peoples live and the content is being produced.
14. Promotion of Indigenous Sovereignty: Highlight and support the struggles, rights, and aspirations of indigenous peoples, particularly their rights to land, resources, and self-determination.
15. Feedback Mechanism: Establish mechanisms for feedback from indigenous communities and individuals. This ensures continuous alignment with their values and perspectives.

It’s essential for publishers to be active allies to the indigenous peoples movement, which requires ongoing commitment, education, and respect. By adhering to these principles, publishers can contribute to a more informed and inclusive global discourse on indigenous issues.